Issues

Key Issues and My Plan for Ocean Springs

As I embark on my candidacy for Alderman At Large, I want to address the issues that matter most to you, the residents of Ocean Springs. These are the challenges and opportunities that will shape the future of our community, and I am committed to finding solutions that will benefit all of us. Here’s my plan to tackle these important issues:

1. Infrastructure
   Our city’s infrastructure is the backbone of everything we do. I will prioritize upgrading and maintaining our infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and public services, to meet the growing needs of Ocean Springs.

2. Residential Building in New Annexed Area
   Responsible growth is essential. We need to ensure that residential development in our newly annexed areas is done thoughtfully, balancing the need for housing with the preservation of our town’s unique character and resources.

3. Homelessness
   We must address homelessness in a compassionate and effective way. I will work with surrounding communities, local churches, and city leaders to develop a comprehensive plan to assist our homeless residents, including the creation of a task force to coordinate efforts and outreach programs.

4. Responsible Development and Growth
   As our city continues to grow, we must be mindful of how we develop. I will work to ensure that all new developments are sustainable, respectful of our environment, and beneficial to our residents, promoting a balanced approach to progress.

5. Community Parks
   Our parks are vital for the well-being of our families. I will advocate for the addition of more community parks to provide safe, accessible spaces for recreation and relaxation for all ages.

6. Highway 90 Infrastructure and MDOT Widening
   Highway 90 is a critical corridor for our city. As MDOT works on the widening project, I will push for improvements that benefit traffic flow and accessibility, ensuring that Ocean Springs remains connected to the broader Gulf Coast region.

7. Water Supply – New Well
   Our city is at capacity with the current five operating wells within the city limits. We need to plan for additional water resources to ensure that we can continue to meet the needs of our growing population.

8. Tree Canopy and Beautification
   Ocean Springs is known for its natural beauty, and I believe it’s important to preserve and enhance that. I will advocate for the creation of a new tree committee to oversee beautification efforts, including the replanting of trees and the involvement of local arborists to improve our tree canopy.

9. Downtown Parking and Traffic Flow
   Downtown Ocean Springs is the heart of our community, and I understand the challenges residents and businesses face with parking and traffic flow. I am committed to working with city planning to explore all possibilities, including the repaving and restriping of Government Street, to improve traffic and parking solutions that will benefit both businesses and residents. 

Together, we can address these issues and make Ocean Springs an even better place to live, work, and raise a family. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and working alongside you to create a prosperous and inclusive future for our community.

Thank you for your support!
Matthew Hinton Sr.

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